If you want to vote in the primary, why don’t you just join one of the major political parties?

We don't believe the state should compel membership in one of two private political organizations in order to enjoy the full benefit of the taxpayer-funded voting franchise. That requirement is arguably a violation of the federal equal protection clause as well as an obvious violation of Article 2 Section 1 of Oregon's Constitution: “Elections free. All elections shall be free and equal.” Separate is inherently unequal.

Opening the primary isn't just about the disenfranchised third of the electorate. It's about giving all voters an equal voice and more choice, regardless of political party affiliation or lack of affiliation, and giving all candidates the freedom to advance without having to pass a partisan filter first.